Integrated shop vacuum and air compressor system

ABSTRACT

An integrated shop vacuum and air compressor system is provided with a wet and dry vacuuming section and a compressor section, each of which is mounted on a easy to relocate trolley with at least three wheels. The vacuum system has a separate motor from the compressor and is independently operable with full capacity. A filter in front of the vacuum suction prevents debris and moisture from entering the vacuum-generating unit. The vacuum hose decreases in diameter as a function of distance from the unit to increase airflow velocity. Air pressure within a compressed air storage tank in the compressor section is sensed and controlled. The integrated shop vacuum and air compressor system provides dry vacuuming, wet vacuuming, high pressure air delivery and air blowing capability from a single, mobile unit.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

This invention relates to vacuum systems; and, more particularly to ashop vacuum and air compressor system that is integrated into a singleunit and provides a plurality of functionalities, including dry vacuum,wet vacuum, air compressor functions, suitable for a wide variety ofapplications.

2. Description of the Prior Art

Many patents address issues related to proving vacuum cleaningfunctionality and compressor functionality as separate devices.Moreover, many of the vacuum cleaners do not provide effective dry andwet vacuum functionality. The compressor devices only provide verylimited application scope.

U.S. Pat. No. 2,327,553 to R. A. Ponselle discloses a vacuum cleanerhaving an internal bag constructed so that it is appointed to house bothwet and dry materials removed from a surface. This vacuum cleaner doesnot comprise a unit having an air compressor, wet vacuum, dry vacuum,and blower in a single housing.

U.S. Pat. No. 2,810,991 to W. H. Mead, et al. discloses an abrasiveblasting apparatus having particular applications in treating surfacesby continuously impelling an abrasive against a surface, removing theabrasive and waste material, and reusing the abrasive. This abrasiveblasting apparatus does not include compressor capabilities, but ismerely an abrasive blasting apparatus. The abrasive grit is forced ontothe surface by air for polishing or cleaning a surface. The abrasiveblasting apparatus does not comprise a unit having an air compressor,wet vacuum, dry vacuum, and blower in a single housing.

U.S. Pat. No. 3,931,662 to Nayfa, et al. discloses a self-propelledfloor-cleaning machine for scrubbing or shampooing rugs or carpetedfloor surfaces, or for waxing, polishing, or scrubbing hard floorsurfaces. The machine includes a vacuum pickup system having acollection tank and an electric motor-vacuum pump unit. Air forpressurizing the supply tank and for aerating and foaming the solutionwithin the tank is provided from an air compressor-electric motor unit.In operation, the solution in the tank is agitated by the motor-pumpunit and aerated by the compressor unit to produce foam, which is causedto flow from the main tank chamber into the trough as a result of thepressurizing of the tank. The compressor unit does not providecompressed air that can be utilized as a forced air stream by the user,but rather merely provides aeration for the generation of foaminternally within the tank. Therefore, the abrasive blasting apparatusdisclosed by the '662 patent does not suggest a unit having an aircompressor, wet vacuum, dry vacuum, and blower in a single unit, butmerely is a floor cleaning machine having wet/dry vacuum capabilities.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,233,707 to Leblanc discloses a footwear cleaningapparatus utilizing a combination of brushing and recirculation ofcompressed air. Footwear is placed on top of the footwear cleaningapparatus. Cleaning is accomplished by brushing the lower sides of theshoes and by passing compressed air over the upper sides of the shoes.The direction of the air and the brushing is oriented to direct anydebris dislodged from the shoes toward a collection area in the centralportion of the apparatus. The dislodged debris is then directed into theapparatus by a recirculation of the compressed air. The footwearcleaning apparatus comprises brush means, air compressor means, storagetank means, and a filter element. The footwear cleaning apparatus doesnot integrate air compressor, wet vacuum, dry vacuum, and blowerfunctionalities into a single unit, but merely provides a footwearcleaning apparatus having localized compressed air directed through apair of tubes and localized dry vacuum capabilities.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,300,261 to Woodward, et al. discloses a vacuum cleaningapparatus having air compressor means. The vacuum cleaning apparatusdisclosed by the '261 patent provides an attachable hood adapted forattachment to a traditional vacuum cleaner. The vacuum cleaningapparatus disclosure is not an air compressor, wet vacuum, dry vacuum,and blower in a single unit, but merely is an attachment to a standardcanister vacuum having a dry vacuum, rotating brush, and a miniature aircompressor providing a jet of air adjacent to the brushing unit andsuction unit of the device. The '261 patent's cleaning apparatus is notan independent, single unit, but represents, instead, an attachment unitappointed for utilization with a traditional vacuum cleaner, whichprovides the suction vacuum. Due to the absence of suction capabilities,this vacuum cleaning attachment cannot be utilized as a wet vacuum, oras a dry vacuum in its independent form. The miniature air compressorprovides a jet stream delivered to the surface by way of a plurality oforifices. There is no provision for an external air hose so that theconsumer can utilize the compressed air in a controlled manner for tasksother than cleaning floor surfaces.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,723,971 to Caldas discloses an industrial vacuumcleaner. The industrial vacuum cleaner comprises a structure in the formof a trolley with a platform on wheels. On the platform a base is placedto support an electric motor connected to a radial compressor or vacuumpump. The industrial vacuum cleaner is fitted with one or more radialcompressors or vacuum pumps connected to the drum to provide greatersuction power. When the switch of the industrial vacuum cleaner ispressed, the radial compressor or vacuum pump starts up. Dirt or otherparticulate material is suctioned through the device. The particulatematerial enters the drum and settles at the bottom, while the suctionedair leaves through a set of filters, and enters the atmosphere. Hence,the radial compressor is used to provide suction, not compressed air.The industrial vacuum cleaner disclosed by this patent does not includean air compressor, wet vacuum, dry vacuum, and blower in a singlehousing, but is merely an industrial vacuum cleaner unit.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,739,535 to Schuld, et al. discloses a vacuum cleaningmachine having specific applications in cleaning fireplaces and thelike. The vacuum cleaning machine comprises a cylindrical containershell with a closed bottom wall and an open upper mouth defining anupper vacuum chamber within the housing. A suction unit is mountedwithin the housing and comprises an electric motor, a blower with aninlet positioned within the vacuum chamber. The outlet of the blowerdischarges air into a lower chamber open to atmosphere and is not acompressed air output. The inlet of the blower is provided with a filterbag to trap dust particles. There is no indication that the vacuumcleaning machine can be utilized for both wet and dry vacuum functions;wet vacuuming would destroy the filter. Moreover, the vacuum cleaningmachine does not include an air compressor function. Significantly, thevacuum cleaning machine is designed for removal of dry debris from afireplace. It does not have an air compressor, wet vacuum, dry vacuum,and blower capability integrated within a single housing.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,829,625 to Wang discloses a portable vacuum cleaner/aircompressor having a light. This cylindrical vacuum cleaner has a centralimpeller providing vacuum suction. The exhaust of the impeller isprovided as a low pressure air delivery. The impeller is driven by amotor, the shaft of which is also connected to an air compressor througha gear attachment. The output of the compressor provides high pressureair delivery. Significantly, the air compressor runs at all times whenthe vacuum cleaner is used; and is driven by a single motor.Accordingly, the power available for vacuum cleaning and generation ofhigh pressure air is limited, and both functions are compromised. Theportable vacuum cleaner/air compressor cannot provide the functionalityof a wet vacuum.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,134,748 to Lynn discloses a surface cleaning devicegenerally comprising a scrubber head, a cleaning element, a supply ofcleaning fluid, and means for removing the cleaning fluid. The scrubberhead is provided with pressurized cleaning fluid and the debris,together with cleaning fluid, is sucked by vacuum into a separationcontainer. The cleaning device does not provide a vacuum for cleaning orair pressure for use. The cleaning fluid is delivered to the scrubberhead. At best this is a wet vacuum device. It may, alternatively,function as a dry vacuum device, in which case the cleaning fluid isshut off. Since the filter in the scrubbing head clogs readily, thesurface cleaning device disclosed by the '748 patent functions as anineffective dry vacuum cleaner.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,208,940 to London, et al. discloses a floor dryer andwarning device for removing liquid and small particulate matter fromvarious surfaces. A cylindrical floor surface drying device has acylindrical container with a lid that contains a vacuum chamber and aair venting chamber. The vacuum is created by a motor driven impeller.Water is sucked by a vacuum hose and separated from the air, which isvented through the venting chamber. The venting chamber has a secondmotor and a rotating fan that dries the floor by passing outgoing airthrough a number of louvers. This device is at best a wet vacuum. Itcannot function as a dry vacuum. There is no provision for deliveringcompressed air.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,485,651 to Payeur discloses a vacuum cleaning systemutilizing a small-mouthed nozzle on a vacuum hose member having an airoutlet member disposed therein. A high-pressure air stream is directedout of the nozzle onto the surface to be cleaned while vacuumingproceeds. This is a canister vacuum cleaner with a vacuum hose. Thevacuum hose also carries a separate air pressure hose that is connectedto a compressed air source such as a compressed air tank. Significantly,the air compressor tank is not integrated into the vacuum cleaning unit,but is located externally from the vacuum cleaning system. As a result,the vacuum cleaning system necessitates a separate air compressor tank,resulting in a bulky, cumbersome arrangement.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,560,075 to Jankowski discloses a wet or dry vacuum withlow center of gravity. This wet or dry vacuum is made of polymericmaterial providing a low center of gravity. A motor drives a blower fan,and the suction side of the impeller is connected to a filter so as todraw clean air. Any debris or water sucked by the vacuum hose is removedfrom the air stream by the filter. This wet or dry vacuum does notprovide compressed air, but is merely a wet/dry vacuum cleaner unit andis appointed for removal of wet/dry debris from a surface.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,606,769 to Tomasiak, et al. discloses a wet/dry utilityvacuum cleaner having a detachable blower. The detachable blower isreceived within complementary shaped cavities or openings on the lid ofthe wet/dry vacuum cleaner. The detachable blower is also capable ofbeing separated from the lid 7 for independent use, as desired. Thewet/dry vacuum cleaner with detachable blower does not include aircompressor capabilities, but is merely a wet/dry vacuum cleaner unitwith a blower.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,797,197 to Alday discloses a mobile carpet dryer havinga vacuum unit and blower unit that forces heated air onto the carpet.The mobile carpet dryer includes a blower unit that forces heated aironto the carpet, and a vacuum unit having a motor vacuums the carpet.Air is heated by a burner mounted on a burner stand, and is suppliedwith fuel from a tank An outlet of the vacuum unit is connected to arecovery tank that includes an exhaust vent. The combination of forcedheated air from the blower and vacuum removal of moisture greatly speedsthe carpet drying process. The carpet dryer does not include aircompressor capabilities, but merely provides a blower and vacuum unit.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,813,086 to Ueno, et al. discloses a carpet cleanerincluding a foam generation unit, roller brushes, and a heatedair-drying mechanism, and method of use thereof. The carpet cleanercomprises a frame with wheels for mobility. An open cleaning agent tankis attached on frame and contains chemical cleaning agents. A checkvalve, a pressurizing pump, a foaming space, and a spring valve areconnected in sequence to the bottom of the tank via a cleaning agentduct. The cleaning agent duct also houses a metallic mesh and foamcleaning agent nozzle having a foaming sponge. The tip of the foamcleaning agent nozzle opens near the surface of a carpet. A pressurizingpump dispenses liquid-foam cleaning agent from the bottom of cleaningagent tank. The foam cleaning agent undergoes an initial foaming underpressure (with a foam diameter of approximately 5-10 mm) as thepressurized air is transferred to foaming space. When the pressureinside the foaming space exceeds 1-2 kg/cm2, a spring valve opens,resulting in the secondary foaming of a liquid foam cleaning agent. Thecarpet cleaner does not provide compressed air that can be utilized as aforced air stream by the user; nor does the carpet cleaner disclose ablower function. The carpet cleaner cannot be used for dry vacuumcleaning.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,170,118 to McIntyre, et al. discloses a collectionapparatus for use with blower/vacuum units adapted for collecting andstoring large amounts of debris. The collection apparatus includes alarge drum having an open top, a removable lid, and a disposable andreusable liner. The collection apparatus utilizes a blower/vacuum unitwith a variety of intake hoses to easily clean up large volumes of bulkydebris while simultaneously depositing the debris into the container.This collection apparatus is appointed for attachment to a blower orvacuum unit, and at best comprises a dry vacuum cleaning unit with largecapacity. It cannot function as a wet vacuum cleaner or providecompressed air.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,175,988 to White, et al. discloses a bypass type vacuumcleaner apparatus having particular applications in collecting wet/drydebris from a surface. The tank-type bypass vacuum cleaner apparatusincludes a debris collection tank and a recess located in one sidewallof the tank for receiving a debris pickup nozzle or tool. A motorhousing and tank cover assembly is releasably secured to tank by latchmember. The vacuum cleaner apparatus includes an elongated flexibledebris pickup hose member, which is suitably connected to an inlet portof the tank. The carpet bypass vacuum cleaner does not include aircompressor capabilities, but merely provides a blower and vacuum unit.It cannot function as a wet-vacuum.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,385,809 to Martin, et al. discloses a gasket-lesswet/dry vacuum with switch-able blowing and vacuum modes. The wet/dryvacuum assembly includes a motor cover attached to a lid, which in turnis releaseably attached to a drum by latches. The drum houses any fluidor debris (wet or dry) introduced into the vacuum during normal suctionoperations. The lid isolates the motor from the drum and prevents thecontamination from liquid and debris entering the vacuum during normaloperation. A first air passageway defines an air path for the blowerport, which is receptive for a hose adapter. A closable door having anopen and closed position directs air flow from the main air passagewayto either the first or second diverging air passageways to switchbetween vacuum and blowing modes. The blower port enables the vacuumassembly to be operated as a blower unit. Significantly, the wet/dryvacuum does not include air compressor capabilities, but merely providesblower and vacuum functions.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,530,116 to Berfield, et al. discloses a vacuum cleanerhaving a muffled detachable blower exhaust unit. The vacuum cleanerincludes a tank mounted on wheels. The tank has an open end which iscovered by a lid assembly comprising latches to secure the lid to thetank. The vacuum cleaner also includes a detachable blower, which may bedetachably secured to the lid assembly by additional latches. The lidalso includes a lid passage a lid passage inlet and lid passage outlets.The lid passage is shaped such that air flowing in the lid passage mustchange direction more than 90 degrees (preferably about 180 degrees) atleast once between the lid passage inlet and the lid passage outlets.The lid passage also includes a chamber or plenum into which the airentering through the lid passage inlet initially enters and expands.Disposed into the side wall of the tank is a nozzle, which may beattached to vacuum cleaner implements. Also provided in the side wall ofthe tank is a drain opening, which is closed by a plug, allowing removalof accumulated fluid when the vacuum cleaner is used in the “wet vac”mode. The vacuum cleaner unit does not include compressor capabilities,but is merely a vacuum cleaner unit having a detachable blower exhaust.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,647,584 to Pileggi discloses a cleaning apparatus usinga vapor-mist spray. The cleaning apparatus includes a housing containingan atomizer unit for transforming a cleaning solution into an atomizedmist. The apparatus also includes a vacuum unit for removing thecleaning solution from an object surface and a nozzle for delivering themist to the object surface to be cleaned. The apparatus further includesa dump valve for emptying used liquid materials from the housing. Theatomizer unit generally includes a compressor so that the atomization ofthe cleaning solution is achieved and the cleaning solution dispersesinto minute particles by introducing a significant amount of air incombination with the cleaning solution. The compressed air is suppliedto the holding tank by the compressor, which creates a positive pressurewithin the tank, thereby forcing the cleaning solution out of the tankinto a cleaning solution supply conduit. Thus, the compressor isutilized to both drive the cleaning solution from the holding tank andto atomize the cleaning solution and deliver it to the object surface tobe cleaned. The hose includes first and second conduits and a nozzle.The first conduit is in fluid communication with the outlet fordischarging the atomized cleaning solution onto the object surface andthe second conduit is in fluid communication with the vacuum conduit forvacuuming up the atomized cleaning solution from the object surface. Theunit disclosed by the '584 patent thus constitutes a vacuum cleanerhaving a misted cleaning solution spray. The compressor is used toatomize the cleaning solution, not to produce a supply of compressedair.

U.S. Published Patent Application No. 2004/0098825 to Swift, et al.discloses an improved vacuum cleaner having dual blower jet capability.A conventional, upright vacuum cleaner comprises a lower body assemblythat houses the motor, blowers, controls, wheels, floor brush, andvarious ducts. The upper body assembly of the upright vacuum cleanercontains the refuse chamber, HEPA filter, handle, and hand tool storagecapability typically found in conventional upright vacuum cleaners. Aconventional floor brush roller is contained within roller vacuumchamber. A duct leads from chamber to an intake port on the vacuumblower in the blower stack assembly, and on to the hand tool vacuumstack. The dual blower, jet-assisted vacuum does not include compressorcapabilities, but is merely a vacuum cleaner with dual blower units.Significantly, the dual blower, jet-assisted vacuum does not include anair compressor, wet vacuum, dry vacuum, and blower in a single housing.

There remains a need in the art for a shop vacuum having both dryvacuuming and wet vacuuming functionalities, together with compressedair delivery; all provided in a compact single unit. The compressed airdelivery must supply air at a high enough air pressure for paintspraying, operation of pneumatic equipment or sand blasting, as well asdeliver air for simple blowing or cleaning purposes. Moisture vacuumedduring a wet vacuuming operation should not contaminate air delivery.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a shop vacuum and air compressor systemthat is integrated as a single unit, and provides dry or wet vacuumingcapability, as well delivery of high pressure air suited for pneumatictool operation, spray painting or sand blasting as well as air blowingoperations. The shop vacuum and air compressor system comprises a vacuumsection disposed above a compressor section. Each of the sections iscapable of independent operation. The air compressor section and vacuumsection are powered by independent motors.

The air compressor section has a rotary or piston type compressor drivenby a first motor. Compressed air is pumped into a compressed air holdingtank. A pressure gage is provided to display the pressure in the airholding tank. A sensor detects the air pressure in the compressed airholding tank and turns the first motor on when the detected air pressurebelow a value set by the user. The sensor turns off the first motor whenthe pressure reaches the user preset value. The compressed air holdingtank is connected to a compressed air hose through a connection meansprovided on the side wall of the integrated shop vacuum and aircompressor system. The user may attach a number of devices to the distalend of the air hose providing high pressure, compressed air.

The vacuum section includes a rotary vacuum pump powered by a secondmotor. The suction of the vacuum pump is attached to a vacuum debris andmoisture collection area. The vacuum debris and moisture collection areahas vacuum hose attachment means, which pass through the side wall ofthe integrated shop vacuum and air compressor system for attachment to avacuum hose. A filter is provided between the vacuum pump suction andthe vacuum tank to prevent any debris from entering the rotary movingparts of the vacuum pump. The vacuum pump exhausts sucked air into theambient air.

Key features associated with the shop vacuum and compressor systeminclude, in combination, the means set forth below:

-   1. An integrated unit having a vacuum section on an upper area and a    compressor section housed in the lower area of the unit;-   2. The compressor section having a first motor driving a rotary or    piston type compressor and a pressure gage and pressure regulator    provided to deliver compressed air at selected pressure through an    air delivery hose connected to the compressed outlet of the    compressor section;-   3. The vacuum section comprising a vacuum generating device powered    by a second motor drive, the suction end of the vacuum unit being    connected to a filter and to a debris and moisture collection area    that traps incoming debris or moisture during dry vacuuming or wet    vacuuming;-   4. The vacuum section optionally being detachable from the    integrated shop vacuum and air compressor section, for handling    remote air pressure requirements; and-   5. The debris and moisture collection area being connected by vacuum    connection means to a vacuum hose, the diameter of which decreases    as a function of distance from the integral shop vacuum and air    compressor system, thereby providing increased suction capacity at    the distal end of the vacuum hose suited for collecting debris and    moisture.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

The invention will be more fully understood and further advantages willbecome apparent when reference is had to the following detaileddescription of the preferred embodiments of the invention and theaccompanying drawing, in which:

FIG. 1 depicts the schematic view of the integrated shop vacuum and aircompressor system; and

FIG. 2 depicts the schematic view of the alternate embodiment of theintegrated shop vacuum and air compressor system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides an integrated shop vacuum and aircompressor housed in a single mobile unit. The compartments for thecompressor and the vacuum sections are physically separated. The vacuumsection is placed above the compressor section and the vacuum sectioncan optionally be detached for bench use. A first motor drives thecompressor section and the air pressure is brought to a selected value,at which point the motor is turned off. The compressed air is stored inan air tank, the pressure of which is indicated by a pressure gage. Thecompressor section may be configured using differently sized componentsdepending on user application. The compressor air motor horsepowerranges from 1/32 HP to 25 HP. The compressed air tank may have acapacity ranging from 0.5 to 25 gallons. The compressed air is connectedto a compressor hose which has a length ranging from 0.5 to 50 feet andmay have a diameter ranging from 1/32 inch to 3 inches

The vacuum section is driven by a second motor drive. The suction sideof the vacuum generating unit is provided with a filter to prevent entryof debris or water into the vacuum generating unit. In addition, thedebris and water are removed from the air stream by a debris and watercollection area, which is placed between the filter and the vacuum hoseconnecting port on the side wall of the vacuum section. The airflow isreversed in the debris and water collection area, causing separation ofwater and debris from the air stream. A detachable lid on top of thevacuum section allows the user to access debris collected in the debriscollection area of the vacuum section. The vacuum hose has a largerdiameter at the vacuum hose connecting port and narrows down to asmaller diameter at the suction nozzle, thereby increasing the suctionvelocity, providing effective suction of debris and water. The vacuumsection may be configured using differently sized components dependingon user application. The vacuum motor horsepower ranges from ⅛ HP to 25HP.

Generally stated, the integrated shop vacuum and air compressor systemis arranged as a single mobile unit, comprising: (i) an air compressor;(ii) an air compressor motor region adapted to house a first motor, forpowering the air compressor; (iii) a second motor for powering a shopvacuum, the shop vacuum having a vacuum hose and a debris area forreceiving and housing dirt and other debris; and (iv) the vacuum hosehaving a first end and a second end, the first end of the vacuum hosehaving a larger diameter than the second end of the vacuum hose. Theintegrated shop vacuum and air compressor system integrates a compressorunit within a shop vacuum unit, thereby creating a versatile unit havingfour separate functions, including, dry vacuum, wet vacuum, blower, andcompressor functions. The integrated shop vacuum and air compressorsystem provides a shop vacuum system and an air compressor system in asingle, mobile unit that can be readily utilized in a consumer's privategarage.

The integrated shop vacuum and air compressor system convenientlyintegrates a compressor unit into the interstices of a shop vacuum unit,thereby uniquely providing the capability of performing four functionswith the use of a single unit. The dry vacuum, wet vacuum, blower, andcompressor functions are arranged in a single unit that is spaceefficient and can be conveniently stored by the consumer. Generally,consumers today must purchase a shop vacuum system and an air compressorsystem separately, as two discrete units.

Advantageously, the integrated shop vacuum and air compressor systemaffords the convenience of combining the shop vacuum and air compressorsystems in a single, mobile, space saving unit. The integration of acompressor dramatically alters the capabilities of a traditional shopvacuum. Integration of the compressor component results in a highlydesirable, versatile capability that is, at present, not availablewithout the amalgamation of separate, cumbersome units. The integratedshop vacuum and air compressor system has particular application withthe detailing industry. This industry includes, but is not limited to,the detailing of cars, motorcycles, boats, RV's and campers. Theintegrated shop vacuum and air compressor system includes additionaloutlets which, together with its compressor capabilities, significantlyincrease its versatility. As such, the integrated shop vacuum and aircompressor system is particularly appealing to consumers and businessowners, ranging from the do-it-yourselfers to large contractors.Conveniently, the integrated shop vacuum and air compressor system comesin various sizes so that the size and affordability can cover a widerange of consumer needs.

FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic view of the integrated shop vacuum andair compressor system, shown generally at 10. The integrated shop vacuumand air compressor system is composed of stainless steel (for high endshops) and injection-molded plastic or “like” materials, for the generalmarketplace. The integrated shop vacuum and air compressor systemcomprises a container having a body portion 32 and a top portion 33 witha top lid 34. An air compressor tank 11 is adapted for housingcompressed air. Optionally, air compressor tank 11 ranges from 0.5 to 25gallons, depending on the size of the integrated shop vacuum and aircompressor system unit. A pressure gauge 27 is provided to indicate thepressure of the compressed air within air compressor tank 11. Air hose28 is received by the air compressor tank 11, and provides delivery ofthe compressed air through nozzle 29. Air hose 28 may range from 0.5 to50 feet in length, depending on unit size. An air compressor motorregion 12 is adapted for housing a first motor 13 for powering the aircompressor tank 11. Air compressor tank 11 is provided with a vent forcooling. Alternatively, cooling is achieved by way of a cooling fan 14.A pressure sensor and switch 36 is optionally integrated into an airpressure on-off switch so that the compressor automatically turns onwhen lower PSI's are detected, in order to mitigate the risk ofcompressor burn out. The first motor 13 (i.e. for powering the aircompressor) may range from 1/32 to 25 horse power. The air compressormay be rotary or piston type, or the like.

Wheels 26 are provided at the base of the integrated shop vacuum and aircompressor system. The wheels 26 are large rubber wheels havingomni-directional orientation. Preferably, the integrated shop vacuum andair compressor system has at least three wheels 26. The Integrated shopvacuum and air compressor system is further provided with a second motor18 housed in vacuum motor region 17 and provided with filter 19. Secondmotor 18 is adapted for powering the shop vacuum function of theintegrated shop vacuum and air compressor system. The second motor 18ranges from ⅛ to 25 horsepower, depending on unit size.

An electric cord is connected to a power source within the body portion32 of the integrated shop vacuum and air compressor system for poweringthe motors 13 and 18. Optionally, the electric cord has a flush wrappingtherearound, and may further be retractable. The air hose 28 may have aflush wrapping therearound, and may further be retractable.Alternatively, the integrated shop vacuum and air compressor system has1 or 2 floor cords depending on unit requirements, and may be configuredto run on 110/220 volts. Optionally, the integrated shop vacuum and aircompressor system unit has additional 110/220 water resistant outletsintegrated in the body portion 32 thereof. The power cord for thecompressor unit shall connect to the second motor 18 via internalrouting or more likely via an outside cord, allowing it to tap into thepreviously mentioned power source or a separate external power source.The short cord would allow the unit to be easily broken out, and mountedon a surface (i.e. work bench) or create a rolling compressor capability(less vacuum capability).

The integrated shop vacuum and air compressor system has a vacuum hose20 connected to the main body of the integrated shop vacuum and aircompressor system by way of connection means 21. Vacuum hose 20 mayrange from 1 to 5 inches in width, depending on the size of theintegrated shop vacuum and air compressor system unit. Moreover, thevacuum hose 20 ranges from 8 to 30 feet depending on the size of theIntegrated shop vacuum and air compressor system unit. Optionally, thevacuum hose 20 is decreased in width as it gets further from the bodyportion 32. In this embodiment, the vacuum hose 20 has a first end 22and a second end 23. In one embodiment, the first end 22 of vacuum hose20 has a larger diameter than second end 23. First end 22 has a diameterranging from 3-5 inches in diameter, preferably being 3 inches indiameter. Second end 23 has a diameter ranging from 1-3 inches indiameter, preferably being 2 inches in diameter when the first end 22 is3 inches in diameter. In general, first end 22 is preferably at least 1inch larger in diameter than second end 23. This difference in diameterprovides a greater suction capability at suction head 24. The vacuumhose 20 is connected by connection means 21 to top portion 33 and leadsinto a debris area 15 adapted for receiving and housing dirt andvacuumed moisture 16 that is sucked up by vacuum hose 20. The debrisarea 15 may range form 1 to 25 gallons, depending on unit size. Top lid34 is fixedly hinged to top portion 33. Latches 35 are provided foropening top lid 34 so that a user can access debris area 15 for removalof dirt and vacuumed moisture 16 housed therein. Power switch 30 isprovided for activating the first and second motors, 13 and 18.

Referring to FIG. 2, there is shown at 20 an alternate embodiment of theinvention, wherein in place of the main body of the integrated shopvacuum and air compressor system, individual components are assembled ona trolley. In this figure, 30 represents the vacuum section and 40represents the compressor section; the sections 30 and 40 are attachedto each other by a set of clips 27. The vacuum section is made up of twodisassemblable parts, A and B. The vacuum pump and filter is located inpart A, while the debris and moisture collection area is located in partB. The vacuum pump motor is shown at 21 turned on and off by switch 22.The impeller of the vacuum generating unit is shown at 23. The vacuumpump discharges air to the ambient through port 25. Restraining clipshold part A and Part B together with a vacuum seal therebetween. Afilter 28 is located at the vacuum inlet port to the vacuum generatingunit and filters any debris or moisture brought in by the air stream. Aconnecting means 24 is provided through the side wall of the vacuumsection to which a vacuum hose 29 is attached. Since the airflow changesdirection within the debris and moisture collection area B as shown bythe arrow, the debris and moisture are removed from the air stream.

The compressor section is located directly below the vacuum section, andheld thereto by a set of clips 27. The compression section has acompressor motor 37 turned on and off by switch 32. The motor isattached to a centrifugal impeller 38 and the high pressure airgenerated is stored in a tank 31. Even though a centrifugal compressoris shown here, a piston type compressor may also be used. The highpressure storage tank 31 has pressure gage 33, pressure adjusting means34 and a high pressure connecting means 36, to which a high pressure airhose is attached.

The compressor section, together with the vacuum section, is placed on areel holder pedestal 4. The vacuum hose, air hose and connecting wiresare wound on this cylindrical pedestal. The whole assembly is placed ona trolley cart 42 with three omni-directional wheels 43. The trolley canbe pulled to another location using a detachable handle 44.

The integrated shop vacuum and air compressor system broadly comprises:an air compressor tank adapted for housing compressed air and beingadapted to receive an external compressed air hose; an air compressormotor region adapted for housing a first motor for powering said aircompressor; and a second motor for powering a shop vacuum and a blower,said shop vacuum and blower having an external hose and a debris areafor receiving and housing wet/dry debris. Optionally, the fourcomponents of the integrated shop vacuum and air compressor system canbe taken apart from the unit and placed on a work bench or the like. Thewheels may be removable, or a dolly may be provided. Potential inclusionof dolly handles, and appropriate wheel assembly may be provided fordifferent handling of full water loads. The compressor section may havethe capability of being bench or wall mounted. Alternatively, the unitmay have storage integrated into it or available via attachable includedrack. Moreover, the unit may have multiple attachments for the tip ofthe air hose, giving it air tool capability similar to that of a greasegun, rivet gun, nail gun and the like.

Having thus described the invention in rather full detail, it will beunderstood that such detail need not be strictly adhered to, but thatadditional changes and modifications may suggest themselves to oneskilled in the art, all falling within the scope of the invention asdefmed by the subjoined claims.

1. An integrated-shop vacuum and air compressor system, comprising: a. avacuum section comprising (i) vacuum generating means driven by a secondmotor; (ii) a filter appointed to remove debris and moisture from avacuumed air stream; (iii) a debris and moisture collection area; (iv)vacuum hose connecting means; and (v) a vacuum hose appointed to receivevarious vacuuming tools; b. a compressor section comprising; (i)compressed air generating means driven by a first motor; (ii) an airtank appointed for receiving compressed air produced by said compressedair generating means; (iii) compressed air pressure regulating means;(iv) high pressure air hose connecting means; (v) a high pressure hoseappointed to receive various high pressure hardware; and (vi) a lid ordivider for separating the vacuum section form the compressor section,to thereby create two fully integrated, divisible units; c. each of saidvacuum section and said air compressor section having, individually, aset of wheels that provide for mobility thereof; whereby said integratedshop vacuum and air compressor system provides functionalities of a dryvacuum, wet vacuum, high pressure air delivery and air blower in asingle unit.
 2. An integrated shop vacuum and air compressor system asrecited by claim 1, wherein said compressor section is located directlybelow said vacuum section and is mounted on at least three wheels toprovide easy mobility of the system to any desired location.
 3. Anintegrated shop vacuum and air compressor system as recited by claim 1,wherein said vacuum generating means comprises a centrifugal fan.
 4. Anintegrated shop vacuum and air compressor system as recited by claim 1,wherein said compressed air generating means comprises a centrifugalpump.
 5. An integrated shop vacuum and air compressor system as recitedby claim 1, wherein said compressed air generating means comprises areciprocal pump.
 6. An integrated shop vacuum and air compressor systemas recited by claim 1 wherein said vacuum motor has a horse power in therange of ⅛ HP to 25 HP.
 7. An integrated shop vacuum and air compressorsystem as recited by claim 1 wherein said compressor motor has a horsepower in the range of 1/32 HP to 25 HP.
 8. An integrated shop vacuum andair compressor system recited by claim 1 wherein said compressed airpressure regulating means is appointed to turn on said compressor motorwhen pressure falls below a preset value, and to turn off saidcompressor motor when pressure reaches a preset value.
 9. An integratedshop vacuum and air compressor system as recited by claim 1 wherein saidvacuum hose has a diameter gradually decreasing as a function ofdistance from a connection point to the integrated shop vacuum and aircompressor system towards the vacuum nozzle.
 10. An integrated shopvacuum and air compressor system as recited by claim 9 wherein thevacuum hose diameter ranges from 3 to 5 inches at the connection pointto the integrated shop vacuum and air compressor system.
 11. Anintegrated shop vacuum and air compressor system as recited by claim 9wherein the vacuum hose diameter ranges from 1-3 inches at the vacuumnozzle.
 12. An integrated shop vacuum and air compressor system asrecited by claim 1, wherein said vacuum section and said compressorsection fully separate to form two separate, fully functional mobileunits.